Olodaterol (brand name, Striverdi Respimat) is a long-acting bronchodilator from the beta-adrenergic agonists (LABA) class of medicines. It is used to control wheezing, shortness of breath, coughing, and chest tightness caused by COPD. It works by relaxing and opening the airways to the lungs, making it easier to breathe.
How does olodaterol for COPD work?
Olodaterol, a beta-adrenergic agonist, works upon inhalation by binding to the corresponding receptors, called beta-adrenoceptors, and activating them. These receptors are activated by stimulation of the adenyl cyclase, an enzyme in lung muscle cells that is involved in the synthesis of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP). When cAMP levels are elevated, the muscle cells of the airways relax, leading to bronchodilation.
There are three types of beta-adrenoceptors, in three different types of muscle cells: of the airways, of the heart, and of the adipose tissue cells. This means that olodaterol may have functions in other cells, but its precise function is not known.
Indications and side effects
The use of olodaterol may increase the risk of flares in people who have asthma, and it is not a medication for asthma patients. A clinical study of a medication similar to olodaterol, called salmeterol, reported that treated asthma patients experienced more severe asthma attacks that required hospitalization, or which led to death, than those not treated with the medication. This finding was considered a class effect of LABA medicines, which includes olodaterol.
Olodaterol is not intended for use as short-acting, or rescue, inhaler during a COPD flare.
The most common side effects are nasopharyngitis (common cold), joint pain, upper respiratory tract infection, bronchitis, urinary tract infections, cough, dizziness, rash, diarrhea, back pain, and arthralgia.
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